Breaking news

Alpha Bank Finalizes Definitive Agreement for Full Acquisition of AXIA Ventures Group Ltd

by THEFUTURE.TEAM
August 6, 2025

Overview Of The Transaction

Alpha Bank, in collaboration with its subsidiary Alpha Finance Investment Services S.A., has announced the signing of the definitive agreement to acquire 100% of AXIA Ventures Group Ltd. This strategic move is designed to create a leading investment banking and capital markets platform across Greece and Cyprus.

Strategic Rationale And Timeline

The agreement, which follows an initial understanding reached on March 31, is slated to be finalized within the second quarter of 2025, pending the necessary supervisory approvals. By consolidating AXIA with Alpha Finance and Alpha Bank’s Investment Banking unit, the new entity will leverage M&A advisory services, capital market issuance (ECM/DCM), and securities transactions to drive enhanced value for corporate clients.

Leadership Integration And Synergy

Maintaining strategic continuity, AXIA’s senior management will assume long-term leadership roles within the unified organization. This integration underscores a commitment to aligning operational capabilities and expanding service offerings, a critical element in accelerating high value-added activities and strengthening fee-based revenues.

Financial Impact And Performance Metrics

According to the bank’s announcement, the acquisition is expected to boost earnings per share (EPS) by 1.4% and deliver a return on invested capital (RoIC) above 20%. The capital impact on the CET1 ratio is projected to remain limited, affecting less than 20 basis points.

Future Outlook And Communication

This pivotal transaction reinforces Alpha Bank’s strategic initiatives, positioning the institution to better serve its corporate clientele and expand its market leadership in high-growth sectors. The bank remains committed to ongoing communication with the investment community in alignment with regulatory requirements.

EU E-Commerce VAT Systems Generate €257.9 Million Revenue for Cyprus in 2024

by THEFUTURE.TEAM
August 11, 2025

Robust Revenue Growth Through Streamlined VAT Collection

Cyprus has demonstrated a significant fiscal boost in 2024 with €257.9 million generated from the European Union’s e-commerce VAT systems, according to Tax Commissioner Sotiris Markides. This impressive performance underscores the effectiveness of the One Stop Shop (OSS) and Import One Stop Shop (IOSS) frameworks in simplifying cross-border tax compliance.

Simplified Procedures for EU and Non-EU Businesses

The OSS system allows Cyprus-registered businesses to streamline VAT declaration and payment on sales to consumers in other EU countries. Companies simply register on the local OSS platform, apply the consumer’s VAT rate, aggregate their submissions quarterly or monthly, and remit a single consolidated payment. Subsequently, Cyprus allocates the appropriate share to each respective EU country. This efficient process extends to non-EU sellers as well, who can have their intra-EU distance sales managed under the Union Scheme.

Breakdown of VAT Revenue Streams

Last year’s declarations under the various schemes illustrate the system’s broad reach: €217.9 million was collected via the Union Scheme, €36.9 million through the Non-Union Scheme, and €3.1 million via the Import Scheme. While the Union Scheme caters to both EU and non-EU sellers engaging in distance sales, the Non-Union Scheme specifically accommodates non-EU firms delivering services to EU consumers. Furthermore, the Import Scheme targets goods valued at less than €150 that are imported from outside the EU.

Implications and Broader Impact

Implemented in July 2021 as an evolution from the more limited MOSS system, these reforms have not only consolidated tax collection through an expansive OSS but also integrated the IOSS for low-value imports. By designating certain online marketplaces as “deemed suppliers,” the new framework ensures that VAT collection is both efficient and equitable. Across the EU, these mechanisms have generated over €33 billion in VAT revenues in 2024, reflecting a successful effort to simplify tax compliance, reduce administrative burdens, and promote fair taxation across the bloc.

The Future Forbes Realty Global Properties

Become a Speaker

Become a Speaker

Become a Partner

Subscribe for our weekly newsletter